Special Education in Ontario

In Ontario approximately 10% of all students have special education needs and require additional programs and services at school. The provision of special education programs and services is not based on diagnosis but rather on their education needs in the areas of behaviour, communication, intellectual or physical abilities. The Ministry of Education determines the processes for Identification, Placement and Review Committees and standards for the Individual Education Plan. The 72 school boards in Ontario make decisions about what programs and services are available and the procedures for accessing support.

This means that parents of students with special education needs should be knowledgeable about the legislation and familiar with the policies and procedures of their local school board. This is a lot of information for a parent to find and understand. In this section parents will find helpful articles on key aspects of special education including:

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A little about Alison

As the mother of two girls, one with cerebral palsy, I have been advocating in the school system for almost 25 years. I have a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Geography and never expected to become so involved with the school system and supports for students with disabilities.